THEOBALD’S: THE PERFECT FINE DINING SUNDAY LUNCH
In addition to our visit to Ickworth House, Dr C and I were very lucky to be treated to a supremely delicious lunch at Theobald’s Restaurant in Suffolk during the May Day Bank Holiday Weekend.
Tucked away in Ixworth just outside Bury St Edmonds, on a street lined with beautiful thatched properties is Theobald’s Restaurant. The restaurant is accommodated in a 16th century period property boasting period feature such as the natural wooden beams and an inviting fireplace. It was transformed into a fine dining eatery by its owner’s Simon and Geraldine back in the early 1980s. Simon is the talented chef rustling up a variety of menu options and using the finest of local produce. Geraldine is responsible for front of house and is the one who presses that first drink into your hand as you sit in front of the cosy inviting fire, look through the menu and relax before your culinary journey.
We were ordering from the a la carte lunch menu and once we’d all made our choices and had sufficient time to warm up with a Gin and Tonic by the fire, we were shown our table. We were a party of five, comprising if Dr C’s mum, stepdad and sister and of course the two of us. One of the things that struck out as we entered the seating area were the small intimate beamed areas which gave that little bit of privacy.
THE CULINARY JOURNEY BEGINS….
TO START
A couple of us opted for the twice baked cheddar cheese soufflé with a crisp cheese top, however the boys chose oak smoked salmon with potted white crab, pickled cucumber avocado and a lime juice & walnut oil dressing
FOR MAINS
Dr C’s mum and I opted for the pan fried sea-bass with Mediterranean vegetables, the boys ordered roast loin of pork with a thick gravy and apple sauce. Dr C’s sister went for the roast breast of Barbury duckling with braised leeks, bacon and a port wine sauce. Mains were served with a selection of seasonal vegetables, small piped domes of carrot, suede and butternut squash, little ramekins of cauliflower cheese, and roast potatoes. I can vouch for the sea-bass being beautifully cooked, with crispy skin and by the looks of things everyone was in food heaven judging by the clear plates all round.
I just wanted to mention, Theobald’s has an extensive wine list comprising of over 100 wines to ensure that all important pairing is perfect. Additionally there are 30 half bottles and if like us lunch is a little too early, then a vast choice of wines by the glass are also available.
AND LAST BUT BY NO MEANS LEAST……THE DESSERT!
We were thoroughly satisfied with our two courses but there’s always room for dessert and with the selection on offer how could we possibly refuse?!
Dr C and I love a caramelised lemon tart, so went for that with a lemon sorbet.
Just to add that Theobald’s has introduced a 4 to 5 taster menu as well as the set menus and á la carte options.
We left Theobald’s feeling extremely satisfied and full and as the sun was shining we decided to stroll up to Bardwell Windmill to work off that food coma we were possibly about to enter!
A lovely end to a relaxing weekend stay in Suffolk.
Let me know in the comments below if you’re a fan of Sunday lunch’s out? Are you a fan of country pubs or fine dining establishments like Theobalds? I would really like some recommendations I can try out on more UK country weekend breaks.
Theobalds Restaurant
68 High Street
Ixworth
Bury St. Edmonds
Suffolk. IP31 2HJ
Tel. 01359 231707
For more information visit Thebald’s website
À Bientôt…
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